The odorous house ant is one of the most common pests facing Maryland homeowners. Most pest species of ants are attracted to sweets, and they can cause huge headaches for gardeners and anyone else wanting to protect plants from aphid and ant infestations. Are the trees and shrubs near your home encouraging an ant problem?
If you are in need of ant control in Baltimore or a surrounding area, give us a call now at (410) 653-2121.
The Connection Between Ants and Aphids
In most cases, homeowners don’t realize they have aphid problems until they find them in their homes. Aphids are plant-damaging insects that blend into plant stems and leaves thanks to camouflaging colors. Ants will return to aphids day after day to “tend” to the aphids, as they secrete a sugary substance called honeydew. Honeydew is collected by ants and used to feed the colony. Because ants value honeydew so much, they will protect aphids from predators. Any plants that attract or house aphids will also encourage ants to appear in large numbers.
What Plants Attract Ants?
- English Ivy
- Maple Trees
- Cherry Trees
- Crape Myrtle
- Rose Bushes
- Peonies
- Small’s Stonecrop
- Clematis
- Wild Parsnip
- Desert Willow
What Plants Repel Ants?
To repel ants from your plants, you should focus on planting things that will not attract the termites, caterpillars, fleas, and aphids that ants love to prey upon. By planting these plants along the side of your home and closest to your property, you will discourage ants from making the trek inside your home and causing a real problem. Many of these plants also repel other garden pests like mosquitoes, flies, and moths.
- Mint
- Tansy or Golden Buttons
- Common Yarrow
- Garlic
- Catnip
- Pennyroyal
- Sage
- Basil
- Lavender
- Lemongrass
- Lemon Thyme
- Rosemary
- Fennel
- Lemon Balm
- Thyme
- Alliums
- Chrysanthemums
- Marigolds
- Nasturtiums
- Petunias
- Pitcher Plants
Schedule Ant Control Services with Brody Brothers
If you’re experiencing an ant problem in your home, call Brody Brothers as soon as possible. We can send out a qualified pest control professional to take care of the issue.
To schedule ant control in Baltimore or a surrounding area, give us a call at (410) 653-2121 or contact us online now.
